What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Learning and Development position at Willow Search Partners?
Our client, a national food and beverage service company, is looking to add their first Learning and Development Director to their growing HR team.
Hybrid: Onsite 3 days
Location Options:
Bronx, NY
Chicago, IL
Columbus, OH
Hanover, MD
Baltimore, MD
Miami or Opa Locka, FL
Tempe, AZ
Las Vegas, NV
Houston, TX
Carrollton, TX
San Antonio, TX
Portland, OR
Kent, WA
West Sacramento, CA
Marina & Brisbane, CA
San Francisco, CA
Union City, CA
City of Industry, CA
Position Summary
The Director of Learning & Development (L&D) is responsible for designing, implementing, and leading a structured, company-wide learning and development strategy that supports organizational growth, employee engagement, and operational excellence. This role ensures employees across warehouse operations, logistics, sales, and leadership functions develop the right skills at the right time, with a strong emphasis on continuous learning and leadership readiness as employees advance in their careers.
Key Responsibilities
Learning Strategy & Leadership
- Develop and execute a comprehensive training framework organized by employee level, ensuring clear progression from frontline roles through supervisory and leadership positions.
- Partner with senior leadership to identify, prioritize, and align training initiatives with business objectives and future workforce needs.
- Serve as the enterprise leader for Learning & Development, ensuring consistency, scalability, and impact across the organization.
Training Design & Delivery
- Lead the design, rollout, and governance of structured learning pathways (e.g., onboarding, role mastery, leadership development).
- Create repeatable, scalable learning programs that prepare employees for increased responsibility and career advancement.
- Utilize blended learning approaches including classroom training, e-learning, on-the-job training, and coaching.
Performance, Safety & Compliance
- Ensure all training programs meet regulatory, safety, and compliance requirements (e.g., OSHA, DOT, food safety standards).
- Define and track metrics to measure training effectiveness, including productivity, retention, safety performance, and leadership pipeline development.
- Collaborate closely with HR on onboarding, career pathing, and succession planning initiatives.
Technology & Innovation
- Implement, manage, and optimize the Learning Management System (LMS) to support role-based learning journeys.
- Leverage innovative learning technologies such as mobile learning, microlearning, and virtual training to increase accessibility and engagement.
- Stay current on best practices and emerging trends in workforce learning, leadership development, and organizational effectiveness.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Organizational Development, Education, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
- 8 years of progressive experience in Learning & Development, including training design, implementation, and governance.
- Experience within food distribution, supply chain, logistics, manufacturing, or a related operational environment strongly preferred.
- Strong understanding of safety, compliance, and regulatory training requirements.
Skills & Competencies
- Strategic thinker with the ability to align learning initiatives to evolving business needs.
- Strong program and project management capabilities with a structured, execution-focused approach.
- Excellent communication, facilitation, and stakeholder-influencing skills.
- Proficiency with LMS platforms, e-learning tools, and instructional design methodologies.
- Results-driven mindset with a focus on measurable impact and continuous improvement.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive base salary
- Comprehensive health, dental, and medical benefits
- Paid vacation and holidays
- Retirement savings plan (401k)
- Employee discounts and additional company-sponsored benefits
Equal Opportunity Statement
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building an inclusive and diverse workforce. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic in accordance with applicable laws.
Salary : $120,000 - $150,000